The mullein plant has been around for thousands of years. The plant is found in many parts of the world, including the United States, and has more than 200 species.The most popular type commercially used is common mullein (Verbascum thapsus). The leaves are harvested near the bottom of the plant and used either fresh or dried to make various products.

Historically, mullein has been used by herbalists as a remedy for the respiratory tract, particularly in cases of irritating coughs with bronchial congestion. Some herbal texts extend the therapeutic use to pneumonia and asthma.

Multiple cultures across the world steeped mullein in a tea to sooth sore throats. As a Leaf Poultice – It was common for Native Americans to use mullein for a wide range of ailments, including but not limited to abscesses, bruises, sprains, rashes, and burns.

Uses

For centuries, mullein flowers and leaves were used on animals and people for a variety of issues, including:

  • cough
  • congestion
  • bronchitis
  • asthma
  • constipation
  • pain
  • inflammation
  • migraine
  • sleep
  • gout

By the late 1800s, mullein became a popular treatment for people with tuberculosis in Europe, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Keep in mind that many of the benefits of mullein are based on anecdotal experiences. More human clinical studies are needed to understand the benefits of this herb.

Sources

  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2781767/
  • https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/1099-1573%28200011%2914%3A7%3C571%3A%3AAID-PTR653%3E3.0.CO%3B2-A
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23627472?dopt=Abstract
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4961512/
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12728112

Traditional Use: 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried mullein leaves steeped in hot water, 1-3x daily.